The Grand Mufti of Egypt, Shawki Allam, said in an interview that Muslims are permitted to dine with Christians during their post-sunset meals in Ramadan.

Eating with Christians “is in no way a violation of Islamic law, but rather an expression of the respect and merciful kindness towards one’s neighbor that the Quran recommends,” he said.

The North African nation of 106 million (map) is 90% Muslim and 9% Christian; Islam is the state religion.